I've agreed to take care of a ShihTzu while the owner is renovating her house. It is not yet here so I need some advice.
Some background: The owner loves her dog, but she keeps him caged a lot (can't understand why her family has pets when they are so picky about the mess pets make). I have a small cattery (hardly used since my cats roam free inside and outside) and she said I could keep it there during his stay. Something tells me this is not a good idea.
Second, only one of my 3 cats grew up with dogs. Knowing my kitties, I don't think they will harm the dog, but will probably stay away. However, they will be stressed, so I expect some behavior problems. How can I minimize them?
My main question is this: Since the dog will stay with me for a few months, what is the best way to make the introductions? I don't want him caged (I don't care what the owner says) and will my cats love me less when they meet this intruder?
PS: I am taking the dog out of pity really. The owner has 6 other dogs and you guessed it they are all in cages most of the time.
Some background: The owner loves her dog, but she keeps him caged a lot (can't understand why her family has pets when they are so picky about the mess pets make). I have a small cattery (hardly used since my cats roam free inside and outside) and she said I could keep it there during his stay. Something tells me this is not a good idea.
Second, only one of my 3 cats grew up with dogs. Knowing my kitties, I don't think they will harm the dog, but will probably stay away. However, they will be stressed, so I expect some behavior problems. How can I minimize them?
My main question is this: Since the dog will stay with me for a few months, what is the best way to make the introductions? I don't want him caged (I don't care what the owner says) and will my cats love me less when they meet this intruder?
PS: I am taking the dog out of pity really. The owner has 6 other dogs and you guessed it they are all in cages most of the time.